Often deemed the road less travelled, a Postgraduate journey will be unlike anything you’ve experienced. Friends may question the necessity for a Postgraduate degree, family may wonder why you invest into studies instead of entering the workforce, and you may feel pressured as peers establish careers and financial security while you remain, a “student.” In those moments, remember that you are NOT just “still a student”:

You are a contributor to novel knowledge, and a pioneer unveiling the unexplored.

Supported by IMU’s Institute for Research, Development, and Innovation (IRDI) Research Excellence Scholarship, I am given the opportunity each day to pursue my goals — unravelling the unexplored in research, instilling hope in the diseased, and serving the community. Since my application submission, my experience has been marked by exceptional support — spanning IMU’s administrative staff, IRDI team, and the Centre of Postgraduate Studies (COPG). IMU consistently goes the extra mile, offering prompt, tailored, and personalised assistance, which stands out amidst the experiences I’ve had.

One of the most outstanding support provided was the COPG’s dedication to ensuring that my PhD fast-track decision was well-informed; Prof Shar Mariam and Prof Tan Eng Lai offered eye-opening insights in a formal discussion about the advantages, potential challenges, and long-term implications of a PhD fast-track pathway prior to my commitment. The sincerity placed into these less commonly addressed perspectives demonstrated COPG’s genuine concern for prospective students from the very beginning of their journey.

I was also exposed to a systematic and comprehensive laboratory onboarding that created the foundation for a safe working environment and facilitated a seamless kickoff to my research. Despite the ever-changing nature of research work, the IRDI and COPG teams’ dedication remains a constant.

Progressing as the Valedictorian of Taylor’s University’s Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences with a First Class Honours in Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Hons), I am Gladys, and I now pursue a PhD in Medical and Health Sciences at IMU University. While certain of my aspiration to contribute to the medical and health sciences, I was initially unsure which niche to pursue, which led me to choose the broader Biomedical Science degree.

Along the way, I realised that the advancement of medicine — from the simplest plaster to the latest vaccine candidate — rests on one foundation: research. This epiphany, coupled with my desire to continuously upskill as a Biomedical Scientist, led me to pursue a Postgraduate degree.

While difficult to single out one “best” memory, my most cherished moments are often woven into everyday interactions within the Research Laboratory’s conducive research environment. From navigating unfamiliar experiments with peers, to laughing over inevitable experimental failures, or sharing lighthearted conversations during long hours in the lab — these seemingly ordinary exchanges collectively build an extraordinary experience. Besides, from my earliest days in the laboratory, I benefited greatly from the senior Postgraduate students’ enthusiasm and willingness to assist. Working in a shared space has sharpened my interpersonal and communication skills, and broadened my perspectives. This strongly reflects and deepens my appreciation for the collaborative spirit, professionalism and selflessness that IMU fosters in its culture.

One of my most meaningful opportunities in IMU is gaining teaching experience — from serving as a laboratory demonstrator for Foundation and Undergraduate practical sessions to serving as a graduate mentor for Undergraduate students from diverse academic backgrounds. Teaching has challenged me to anticipate queries, adapt explanations, and tailor guidance; all while also learning, in return, from those whom I guide.

Perhaps unexpectedly, giving back to the institution as an IRDI scholar has also opened numerous avenues for personal and professional growth. With various discipline-specific opportunities to contribute, I found some of the most rewarding experiences to be organising impactful events such as the Lab Safety Awareness Day with industrial experts and participating in the Seremban Diabetes (SeDia) Cohort Study biospecimen team.

Funded by the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE)’s Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS), my PhD research project investigates the role of extracellular vesicles produced by Candida glabrata, aiming to uncover their role in fungal communication, pathogenicity, and host–pathogen interactions, and ultimately exploring their potential as novel immunotherapeutic strategies against invasive candidiasis.

I am privileged to be supervised by Dr Chew Shu Yih, from IMU’s School of Medicine, a medical microbiologist whose research spans fungal pathogenicity, host–pathogen interactions, and probiotic development. Dr Chew’s professionalism and supervision strikes a careful balance between providing direction while allowing ample space for independence, critical thinking, and academic growth. Beyond academia, he also embodies the qualities of a mentor, displaying genuine concern for personal wellbeing of his students.

Equally significant are the other academics across IMU who strongly encourage engagement with the wider community, and reflection on global developments. Consistently emphasised in IMU, a sound worldview ensures that our research becomes both scientifically and socially rigorous, making meaningful contributions locally and globally.

My immediate focus lies on advancing my research and generating impactful findings in microbiology and immunology. Simultaneously, I also aspire to raise awareness of neglected infectious diseases, that warrant equal research focus and resources as their more “notorious” counterparts. To support these goals, I will actively engage in continuing medical education, broaden my scientific perspectives, and stay attuned to global developments. While my future career trajectory remains open, I believe that IMU’s integrated approach that combines research excellence, community engagement, and global awareness will equip me with the competencies, resilience, and vision needed to thrive. Whether in academia, industry, or clinical sciences, this journey in IMU will prepare me to contribute meaningfully as a Biomedical Scientist to the medical and health sciences.

The Postgraduate path demands time, resilience, and the courage to embrace setbacks. However, it will be worth it; when the knowledge, skills, and perspectives you gain ripples far into society and the workforce. I found myself part of a community that shares my aspirations and ideals — advancing knowledge, upskilling, and serving the medical and health sciences, right here at IMU!

“Wisdom, like an inheritance, is a good thing and benefits those who see the sun. Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: Wisdom preserves those who have it.” – Ecclesiastes 7:11-12

Written by Gladys Yau Yeeng-Ai (丘迎嬡)